The feasibility of a continuous fetal monitoring device
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A mixed-methods study to explore the feasibility of a novel continuous fetal monitoring device
IRAS ID
201920
Contact name
Alexander Heazell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
A stillbirth describes when a baby dies after 24 weeks of pregnancy and before being born. In the UK there are roughly 11 stillbirths every day. Normally, before a stillbirth occurs changes such as a slower heart rate and reduced movement take place. Fetal monitoring attempts to detect these changes so that babies can be delivered before they become severely ill. If a baby could be monitored continuously then these changes could be detected earlier. However, current forms of fetal monitoring, such as ultrasound, cannot be used for long periods of time and do not significantly reduce stillbirth rates. The Monica AN24 device is a continuous monitor which records the baby’s heart rhythm using sensors placed on the mother’s abdomen. As this is a new device there is little evidence about how well it works. In this project women will be asked how they feel about the device after wearing it. Doctors and midwives will also be asked about their views of the device. The effect of the mother’s movement and the age of the baby on how well the Monica AN24 can record the baby’s heart rhythm will also be assessed.
REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NW/0287
Date of REC Opinion
20 May 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion